Melbourne Seminar: Alternative Fertiliser – Biosolids

AgriWest in Melbourne’s west is holding a half-day info seminar 21 July in Melton, looking at the benefit of using biosolids as the price of traditional chemical fertilisers rises.

Biosolids?

Biosolids are a by-product of wastewater treatment processes, a nutrient rich mix of organic matter. Most wastewater comes from household, kitchens, laundries and bathrooms.

The Australasian Biosolids Partnership – managed by the Australian Water Association – says:

Biosolids may contain:

* Macronutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur and
* Micronutrients, such as copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium, iron, boron, molybdenum and manganese

Biosolids may also contain traces of synthetic organic compounds and metals, including arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, nickel and selenium. These contaminants limit the uses to which biosolids can be put, with all applications regulated by appropriate government authorities in each State and federally. Australia has one of the strictest regulatory regimes for biosolids application and use in the world.

What are Biosolids used for?

Their value as a soil conditioner is well known and as fertiliser prices continue to increase they become an attractive alternative to the traditional chemical fertilisers.

Biosolids can be applied as a fertiliser to improve and maintain productive soils and stimulate plant growth. They are also used to fertilise gardens and parks and reclaim mining sites.

Seminar Speakers

• Daryl Stephens (PhD) Principal Scientist for Arris Pty Ltd – specialist in environmental and agronomic risk assessment for beneficial use of biosolids and wastewater
• Stephen Laird, Environmental Officer specialising in biosolid management projects at Epsom Environmental
• Current research along with future directions presented by RMIT University students

Seminar Details

Date 21 July 2009
Time Registration 8.30 sharp. Seminar from 9.00am – 1.30pm. Morning Tea and a light lunch will be provided.
Venue Eynesbury Homestead, Melton South (Melway Ref – 226 H1)
Cost $50 Agriwest members/Western Water customers, $70 non members
RSVP 15 July 2009

For more info contact Sarah Newell 03 9218 5505, email sarah.newell@westernwater.com.au

Places are limited and bookings are essential

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Please make cheques payable to:
Renewable Resources
Western Water
P O Box 2371
Sunbury DC Vic 3429